In the right hands, facelift surgery can have transformative, completely natural-looking effects. Our triple board-certified surgeon, Dr. James Lowe, uses advanced methods and endoscopic tools to perform facial plastic surgery at our private on-site surgical center.
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Over time, gravity and sun exposure take their toll on the face and neck. Deep creases that run from each side of the nose to the corners of the mouth appear; the jawline slackens; and the neck develops loose folds and fat deposits. A facelift (rhytidectomy) counteracts these signs of aging by tightening muscle, removing fat and trimming excess skin, giving the face a fresher, more youthful look.
What can a facelift do for me?
A facelift improves the look of the lower and middle areas of the face, and the neck. It is most effective for correcting the following:
- Mid-face sagging
- Deep creases under the eyes
- Nasolabial folds
- Jowls
- Sagging fat
- Loose skin and fat under the chin and jaw
Although a facelift removes or reduces signs of aging, over time, they will gradually reappear. A facelift does not improve the look of the brow, eyelids and nose, and some parts of the mid-face. A patient who wants to improve those areas might combine facelift with a brow lift or eyelid surgery, and/or with injectable soft-tissue fillers, facial implants and skin resurfacing.
Who are good candidates for a facelift?
The best candidates for a facelift want to correct one or more of the signs of aging indicated above; have some facial sagging, but still have elasticity in their skin; are generally healthy; do not smoke; and have realistic expectations about what rhytidectomy can do.
How is a facelift performed?
A facelift is typically performed as an outpatient procedure in an office-based facility, surgery center or hospital. Patients may have a choice of IV sedation or general anesthesia. The procedure takes about 2 hours. The way a facelift is performed depends on the surgeon, the patient's facial structure, and the extent of correction desired. The types are traditional facelift and limited-incision facelift. In both methods, incisions are closed with stitches or tissue glue. Scars are hidden in the hairline and natural contours of the face.
What is the recovery from a facelift like?
After facelift, the surgeon wraps the incisions in bandages, and may place drainage tubes. The tubes are taken out the next day, when the hair is carefully washed. If surgical clips are holding some incisions closed, they are removed, along with any stitches, one week after the procedure. Swelling, numbness, bruising and a feeling of tightness or tension in the face and neck may be felt. The face may look uneven or distorted, and facial muscles may feel stiff. Most of these side effects resolve within 3 to 6 weeks, and sensation typically returns to normal within a few months. Scars become less red, raised, lumpy and itchy over time.
How long do the effects of a facelift last?
Results of a facelift are not permanent, and some patients choose to undergo another in 5 or 10 years. In some sense, however, effects are permanent; years later, the face continues to look better than if rhytidectomy had not been performed.
What are the risks of a facelift?
Possible complications of a facelift include bleeding, infection, bruising, swelling or discoloration, allergic reaction to the anesthesia, skin blistering (usually only in smokers), nerve injury, and temporary or permanent loss of sensation in the face.
FAQs
A traditional facelift helps with more extensive signs of aging, such as significant sagging skin and deep wrinkles. It typically involves longer incisions around the hairline and ears, allowing the surgeon to lift and reposition underlying tissues for comprehensive rejuvenation.
A mini facelift, on the other hand, is less invasive and focuses on mild to moderate concerns, such as early signs of aging in the lower face. It requires smaller incisions and has a shorter recovery time, making it an excellent choice for patients seeking subtle improvements.
Recovery time varies, but most patients can expect to take about two weeks off from work and regular activities. Initial swelling and bruising typically subside within a few weeks, but subtle improvements will continue over several months. Final results are usually visible three to six months after surgery. Dr. Lowe will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery.
The choice depends on your concerns and goals. Nonsurgical treatments like BOTOX® and dermal fillers can help treat early signs of aging, such as fine lines and minor volume loss. These treatments require no downtime and provide temporary results.
If you’re dealing with significant sagging, deep wrinkles, or loss of facial definition, surgery may be a better option. Facelift surgery offers long-lasting, transformative results that nonsurgical treatments cannot achieve. Dr. Lowe can discuss your needs during a consultation to help you choose the best approach.
Facelift surgery is generally safe but carries some risks, including scarring, infection, and temporary nerve changes. Scars are discreetly placed and fade with proper care. Our accredited surgical center follows strict safety protocols to minimize risks, and Dr. Lowe ensures all concerns are discussed during your consultation.
Facelift results typically last 10 to 15 years. Factors like skin type, age, lifestyle, and proper aftercare play a role in maintaining results. Avoiding smoking, using sunscreen, and following a healthy routine can help preserve your refreshed appearance.
Dr. Lowe carefully places the facelift incisions to blend with your natural hairline, minimizing visible scarring. While you may have a minor hairline adjustment, most patients can style their hair as usual after healing. Your surgeon will discuss specific details during your consultation.
Major weight changes can impact facelift results by altering facial contours. Weight loss may lead to loose skin, while weight gain can obscure definition. Maintaining a stable weight through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and lifestyle habits helps prolong your results.